Rotational Deformity of Long Finger Caused by Isolated Metacarpophalangeal Joint Capsular Injury: A Case Report.
Mark Ren, Alirio J deMeireles, Taylor L Paskey et al.
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Case in brief
A 49-year-old woman experienced a leash-pulling injury resulting in fractures of the ring and small finger proximal phalanges. She presented with pain and supination of the long finger metacarpophalangeal joint, but imaging revealed no collateral ligament injury. Surgical exploration identified an isolated capsular avulsion, which was repaired, leading to restored alignment and full range of motion, with pain and instability resolved at 1-year follow-up.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights an isolated metacarpophalangeal joint capsular injury as the cause of rotatory instability, which is not commonly recognized.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider isolated capsular injuries in cases of rotatory instability of the metacarpophalangeal joint, especially when other injuries are absent.
Why it matters
Recognizing this type of injury can lead to appropriate surgical intervention, improving outcomes for patients with unexplained finger instability.